BALLET THEATRE
The Leadership and Artistic Vision of Ballet Theatre of Scranton
Board of Directors
List of Services
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Joanne D. Arduino Artistic DirectorJoanne D. Arduino
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Paul Arduino AdministratorPaul Arduino
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Nancy Salerno Executive DirectorNancy Salerno
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Kimberly S. D’Andrea Immediate Past PresidentKimberly S. D’Andrea
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Janine Baux PresidentJanine Baux
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Kelli Vachino Vice President & Nutcracker Ticket ChairKelli Vachino
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Dina Manci Co-TreasurerDina Manci
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Pat Arvonio Co-TreasurerPat Arvonio
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Christine Gutekunst SecretaryChristine Gutekunst
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Joelyn Lockett Fundraising ChairJoelyn Lockett
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Karoline Mehalchick Vice President & Production ChairKaroline Mehalchick
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Janet Durkin Vice President & Social EventsJanet Durkin
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Nicole Costanzo Membership ChairNicole Costanzo
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Johnine Bickaskus Educational ChairJohnine Bickaskus
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Juli Avvisato Usher Chair/House ManagerJuli Avvisato
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Bonnie Agugliaro Spring Ticket ChairBonnie Agugliaro
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Kelley Laird Benefactor ChairKelley Laird
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Jo-Ann Osiadacz Historian/ArchivistJo-Ann Osiadacz
Performance Opportunities
At Ballet Theatre of Scranton, our students are immersed in exceptional performance experiences. Each year, they have the opportunity to participate in The Nutcracker, a treasured tradition presented free to the public—one of the only productions of its kind in the United States. In addition, students showcase their talent in full-length, professionally produced ballets each spring. Ballet Theatre of Scranton also offers master classes and educational programs throughout the season, further enriching the dancers' artistic journey.
These productions offer emerging dancers the opportunity to develop their technique and artistry in a nurturing, professional environment.
The Nutcracker
In 1976, Ballet Theatre of Scranton’s visionary founder and Artistic Director, Constance Reynolds, sought to give back to the community that had warmly embraced her upon her arrival from Scotland. She did so by creating an extraordinary gift—The Nutcracker—a holiday tradition that has grown into an iconic annual event, beloved by generations.
A Gift to the Community
Featuring over 100 dancers, stunning sets, intricate costumes, and dazzling special effects, The Nutcracker has captivated more than 400,000 audience members throughout its history, including over 15,000 school students who have attended educational performances designed to broaden their exposure to the arts.
The 2025 season will mark the 50th anniversary of this extraordinary gift to the community. However, maintaining the integrity of the production has not been without its challenges. Rising costs and reduced arts funding have posed significant financial hurdles. In response, Ballet Theatre of Scranton will launch a fundraising campaign during the 50th anniversary, with the goal of preserving the spirit of generosity and artistic excellence that The Nutcracker represents, ensuring that this timeless holiday tradition can continue to be enjoyed by future generations.